Since 1990, there has been an increase in the rate of divorce for people over the age of 55. There are many reasons why older New Jersey residents have decided to end their marriages. These reasons include more liberal attitudes toward divorce, increasing lifespans and the fact that women don’t necessarily need husbands to provide for them.
There is less of a stigma around divorce
In previous generations, couples would often stay together even if they were miserable. This is because society looked down upon breaking the vows of marriage regardless of whether a person felt safe and loved. However, it’s not uncommon for people today to see marriage as little more than a contract between two people that can be nullified at any time.
People are living longer than ever
The average lifespan for a woman living in the United States is 81 years, and the average lifespan for a man living in the United States is 77 years. Therefore, if you’re under the age of 60, you could have several more decades of having to put up with a partner who may no longer meet your needs. It may make more sense to look for fulfillment from another person instead of staying in a dull relationship.
Gender roles are more fluid
For much of the 20th century, men were the primary breadwinners for their families. However, in recent decades, it has become much more acceptable for a woman to work outside the home. In some cases, she is the primary breadwinner for her family. Ultimately, greater equity in the workplace has made it easier for individuals of both genders to survive on their own after a divorce.
Regardless of how old you are when ending your marriage, it can have a significant impact on your life. Therefore, it may be wise to hire an attorney to help negotiate a final settlement. If you choose to craft a settlement through mediation, an attorney may review it before it goes into effect.